Measures for the evaluation of high-quality extra virgin olive oils

Calls on the Commission to take measures to protect the producers of high-quality extra virgin olive oils from unfair market competition, while enhancing the EU’s olive sector

Motion for a European Parliament resolution on measures for the evaluation of high quality extra virgin olive oils within the European olive sector aimed at protecting consumers and producers

The European Parliament,– having regard to Article 4, paragraph 2, point (a) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU),– having regard to Articles 26, 27, 114 and 115 TFEU,– having regard to Rule 133 of its Rules of Procedure,

A. whereas there is now a greater awareness of the food we consume, and whereas an increase in demand for high-quality extra virgin oils has been noted (International Olive Council (IOC));

B. whereas the ‘extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)’ market category, intended as the highest quality category, encompasses a wide range of olive oils, from the high-quality ones in terms of taste, aroma and nutrient values to those that barely meet the basic quality requirements;

C. whereas the producers of high-quality extra virgin olive oils are left mercilessly to compete on the market with the unfair prices of other oils in the same category that are undoubtedly of lower value in comparison with the high-quality characteristics of extra virgin olive oils;

1. Calls on the Commission to take measures to give appropriate recognition to the high-quality extra virgin olive oils that fall within this category and to introduce a new ‘premium’ market category which complies with strict criteria for taste, aroma and nutritional value;

2. Calls on the Commission to take measures to protect the producers of high-quality extra virgin olive oils from unfair market competition, while enhancing the EU’s olive sector.